Research

Animal Diversity and Molecular Evolution

My research interests encompass molecular evolution and comparative genomics across animal species. While our primary focus lies with mammals and birds, particularly bats, we remain open to exploring other animal groups on rare occasions. Previously, I conducted studies on vision and taste genes in various species, including bats, giant pandas, mole rats, and penguins. Presently, my research endeavors are twofold: (1) to unravel the evolutionary mechanisms underlying the vast diversity of form and behavior observed in nature, with bats as a model group, and (2) to develop and test evolutionary hypotheses concerning sensory system evolution across vertebrates, using vertebrate taste receptor genes as a model system.